Terpenes are the aromatic compounds produced in the cannabis or hemp plants. The organic compounds produce a variety of smells and contribute to both the taste and overall experience of a cannabis product. Common terpenes found in hemp can resemble a flower essence, while others can have more earthy scents of wood or spice. All plants contain terpenes, which act as an immune defense system against foreign pathogens. Terpenes are a plant’s natural insecticide.
These aromatic compounds not only help the overall health of the cannabis or hemp plant, but contribute to what is known as the Entourage Effect. The Entourage Effect refers to a breakthrough in scientific research that shows botanical extracts from cannabis actually are more effective when the whole plant extract with all of its constituents are included versus typical single-molecule or isolated compounds.